Richard Swanson is a retired community college English teacher who lives in Madison, Wisconsin, but happily spends time in the summer in some place called Muscoda, where he gardens, observes nature, and does artisan woodworking. The author ofMen in the Nude in Socks,Not Quite Eden and, most recently,Papaazzi Moments,Richard's work is noted for its humor and humanity and often focuses on popular culture. He and his long-time companion of more than three decades, Fanny, share a common interest in good books and cooking. Learn more about Richardhere.

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Dorcas:
Indeed, I must write my "Walden."Posted 01/03/2014 07:49 AM

Buckner14:
As many times as I taught "Walden," I had somehow missed this story. Thanks for the story, well-told in the poem. And to our Poem-Keeper, thanks for the photo, which reminds me of my one visit there. I was with other professors, and as I dipped my fingers in the pond, a man behind me said, "I think we ought to pray." IndeedPosted 07/12/2013 08:25 PM

Jo:
Richard,
This is a wonderful poem, and inspirational to me in how he learned from the mistake, leaned into himself and wrote Walden. Thank you.Posted 07/12/2013 04:30 PM

transitions:
Thank you for the insight and your thoughtful poem, with a perfect title...JudyPosted 07/12/2013 11:30 AM

Gary Busha:
Let me correct WALDEN.Posted 07/12/2013 08:10 AM

Gary Busha:
Good anecdote and poem to support. WALDON POND has long been a treasure in my reading.Posted 07/12/2013 08:09 AM

rksanders@charter.net:
Poignant poem, Richard. Don't you wish Thoreau could know the regard with which he is held today?Posted 07/12/2013 05:14 AM